Step‑by‑Step Guide to Filing an Auto Insurance Claim

File the claim promptly and gather essential information

Start by contacting your insurer as soon as possible, preferably within 24 hours of the incident, and provide the policy number, date, location, and a brief description of what happened. Collect the other driver's contact and insurance details, take photos of damage, and secure a police report if required.

Document the damage and estimate repair costs

Take clear, well‑lit photographs of all vehicle damage from multiple angles, and keep receipts for any temporary repairs (e.g., a windshield patch). If you have a trusted body shop, request a written estimate; many insurers also offer approved assessors who can produce an independent quote.

Submit the claim with required forms

Log into your insurer's portal or use their mobile app to upload the photos, police report, and repair estimates. Fill out the claim form accurately, noting any injuries, rental car needs, or towing expenses. Attach supporting documents as PDFs or image files to avoid delays.

Cooperate with the adjuster and review the settlement

An adjuster will contact you to inspect the vehicle or verify the submitted evidence. Answer questions honestly and provide any additional records they request. Once the adjuster completes their assessment, the insurer will issue a settlement offer; compare it to your repair estimates and negotiate if the payout seems insufficient.

Finalize payment and follow up

After accepting the settlement, the insurer will issue payment—typically via direct deposit or a check. Keep copies of the settlement agreement and any correspondence for future reference. If you rented a replacement vehicle, submit the rental invoices promptly to receive reimbursement.

Typical timeline for an auto claim